Apparatus and method for laser marking golf balls

ABSTRACT

A method for laser marking a golf ball includes providing a golf ball including a core and a shell. Infusing the shell of the golf ball with a laser marking substrate including an initial substrate color, wherein shell includes an exterior surface and an original shell color. Marking the golf ball while maintaining an original shape of the exterior surface between a pre-marked configuration and a post-marked configuration. Marking the golf ball further including exposing a portion of the shell to a laser beam, and modifying the original shell color of the portion of the shell exposed to the laser beam. The modification of the original shell color corresponds to an alteration of the initial substrate color in response to exposure to the laser, wherein the alternation of the initial substrate color is within the shell.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/917,214, filed Dec. 17, 2013, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Various embodiments described herein relate to systems and methods associated with laser marking of golf balls.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

In the game of golf, golfers need to be able to distinguish their balls from other's to ensure the wrong ball is not played. Golf ball manufacturing generally applies identification to the balls including a number or other unique identifier for player identification on the golf course and one or more of brand identification or company logo information of the seller. In other instances, the balls may be identified with additional alphanumeric characters, artwork, alignment marks or customized information according to the end user or marketer. For example, standard golf balls are purchased at a sporting goods store and these same or similar balls are purchased with personalized or unique identifiers from custom golf ball printers. The objective of the end user is to obtain a golf ball that is properly identifiable and has good physical characteristics such as aerodynamics and roundness that will allow the ball to play well on the golf course.

In one example, the vast majority of golf balls produced have an internal core, may or may not have one or more intermediary layers and have a white outer shell. Most golf balls also have dimples on the outer surface of the outer shell. The dimple design allows the balls to travel further and straighter. The dimples facilitate the boundary layer of air next to the outer surface of the ball to transition from laminar to turbulent flow during flight. The turbulent air flow is able to remain attached (e.g., not separated) to the surface of the ball further along the outer surface of the ball, which reduces the low pressure zone in the slipstream of the golf ball, and thus reduces drag. This reduction in drag allows the ball to travel further. A smooth, clean surface, including dimples, can optimize the aerodynamics of the golf ball.

The vast majority of golf balls are identified and imprinted with ink by a process commonly known as pad printing. Pad or ink printing adds a layer of ink to the outer shell of a golf ball, for example in the form of shapes, letters or numbers. Another method of imprinting golf balls may include screen printing also known as silk-screening, which adds ink to the outer shell of the ball.

In one example, another method of marking golf balls may be to remove or etch the material of the cover of the golf ball with a laser. U.S. Pat. No. 6,462,303 shows one example of such an ablative method. In the U.S. Pat. No. 6,462,303 the surface material is physically removed, or ablated, from the golf ball cover, leaving an image engraved or machined within the cover layer. Optionally, Covers machined (e.g., ablated) using this process may be coated with one or more layers of opaque paint, and may be further sealed, as necessary or desired, with one or more transparent layers. For example, the deformed surface material of the golf ball cover is then filled in later with a suitable material.

Overview

The present inventor has recognized, among other things, that a problem to be solved can include minimizing the alteration of properties of a golf ball through marking of the golf ball. Marking including the ablation (removal) of material or printing (addition) of material each affect the properties of a golf ball including weight distribution, aerodynamic properties and the like.

In one example, added volume (e.g., ink mass) on the outer surface of the golf ball disrupts the dimpled pattern of the golf ball and the airflow over the golf ball surface resulting in adverse aerodynamic effects. Additionally, golf balls marked with ink commonly lose or partially lose ink from wear caused by striking the ball with the club head, repeated washings and the like. Worn golf balls in some instances become difficult to identify. Additionally, the process of refilling the removed material without disrupting the dimple pattern of the golf ball shell's outer surface is in some examples time consuming and costly. Further, in one or more examples, the material that replaces the ablated material should be bonded to the existing material and have similar mass, density, hardness, durability, and compression characteristics to minimize impact the physical properties of the golf ball. The supplementing of the golf ball surface (at the ablated portion) is in at least some examples a multiple step process that may introduce production error at one or more of the steps. Such error may adversely affect the aerodynamic shape and material properties of the outer surface of the ball.

The subject matter described herein provides a solution to these problems through laser marking of a golf ball without adding to (e.g., ink) or removing material from the surface (e.g., ablating) or altering the shape of the golf ball or its weight distribution. The aerodynamic properties and weight distribution of the laser marked golf ball is thereby maintained. Additionally, the subject matter described herein provides the further advantage of marking a golf ball, wherein the marking remains visible after the surface of the golf ball is abraded (e.g., through one or more strikes from clubs).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure is pointed out with particularity in the appended claims. However, a more complete understanding of the present disclosure may be derived by referring to the detailed description when considered in connection with the figures, wherein like reference numbers refer to similar items throughout the figures and:

FIG. 1 is a side view of a golf ball with dimples, and a depiction of the focusing characteristics of a laser beam on the exterior surface of the golf ball, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a cross section view of the outer layers of a golf ball including a laser marking substrate infused within a shell of the golf ball, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of one example of a laser marking system and a terminal station and power supply used in laser marking of a golf ball in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of one example of marking a golf ball in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of one example of marking a golf ball including a laser marking substrate in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present application relates to devices and methods for marking a golf ball, such as laser marking a golf ball. The following detailed description includes examples intended to be illustrative of the subject matter disclosed herein and are in no way intended to be limiting. Features and steps described in relation to one or more examples may be combined with the subject matter of other examples and methods provided in this disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a side view of a golf ball 100, such as a golf ball 100 with a shell 220 including an exterior surface 110. For instance, the exterior surface 110 is the outer most surface of the shell 220. In the example shown, the exterior surface 110 includes dimples 120. The dimples 120 enhance the aerodynamic performance of the golf ball 100. The shell 220 includes a shell material. The shell 220 and the shell material include an original shell color, and the exterior surface 110 of the shell 220 includes an original shape (e.g., a spherical shape with dimples 120). The original color includes, but is not limited to white, off-white, yellow, orange, pink, or the like. In addition, FIG. 1 shows a depiction of a target region 130 of a laser beam on the exterior surface 110 of the golf ball 100, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

In the example of FIG. 1, the golf ball 100 includes a laser mark 140, such as a laser mark 140 within the shell 220 of the golf ball 100 (i.e., a marked portion of the shell 220). In one example, the shell 220 includes a pre-marked configuration and a post-marked configuration. For instance, in the pre-marked configuration, the shell 220 includes the original color, and in the post-marked configuration a portion (the laser marked portion) of the shell 220 includes a modified shell color. For instance, the modified shell color is a shell color that provides a contrast to the original shell color. The modified shell color results from exposure of the portion of the shell 220 to the laser beam. The modified color includes, but is not limited to, a darker shade of the original color, grey, black, or the like. In one example, the modified color includes a lighter color than the original color, such as a lighter shade of the original color, white, or the like. Stated another way, the modified color contrast with the original color. In the pre-marked configuration, the shape of the exterior surface 110 includes the original shape and the un-marked portion of the shell material includes the original shell color. In the post-marked configuration, a marked portion of the shell 220 includes a modified shell color, and the original shape of the exterior surface 110 is maintained from the pre-marked configuration (e.g., in the post-marked configuration, the shell 220 is identical to the pre-marked configuration). For instance, the exterior surface 110 of the golf ball 100 in the post-marked configuration includes a spherical shape with a dimple pattern that is identical to the original shape (e.g., spherical shape with the dimple pattern) of the exterior surface 110 in the pre-marked configuration. That is to say, material is neither added in the manner of printed labels nor removed in the manner of an ablation system.

In one example, the laser mark 140 is produced by exposing a portion of the shell 220 (FIG. 2) to the laser beam. For instance, the laser beam is focused (e.g., at a focal point) on the portion of the shell 220 to be marked. The laser beam correspondingly modifies the original shell color, thereby marking the portion of the shell 220 with a modified shell color and forming the laser mark 140 shown in FIG. 1. The laser is produced by a laser marking system (as shown in FIG. 3 and described herein). An exemplary target region 130, such as an optimal target region for the laser beam of the laser marking system is provided on the exterior surface 110 of the golf ball 100 as shown in FIG. 1.

In the example shown in FIG. 1, marking is desired at and within the target region 130. The target region 130 is the area that is effectively marked with a laser system, for instance, without moving or rotating the golf ball 100. In the example shown, the shell 220 includes a laser mark 140 within the target region 130. The target region 130 includes the surface area of the golf ball 100 at or between a top dead center A of the golf ball 100 and a target region limit B. In one example, some laser systems include a mechanism (focusing systems, translation of the laser or the like) to maintain the focal point while laser marking throughout the target region 130.

FIG. 2 is a cross sectional depiction of the shell 220 (i.e., cover) and core 210 (e.g., a mantle) of a golf ball 100. The golf ball 100 includes, but is not limited to, a solid core, liquid core, wound core, or any combination thereof. The core 210 includes a core material that includes, but is not limited to ethylene copolymers, balata, acrylate, natural rubber or synthetic rubber, such as polybutadiene rubber, a liquid core material, or the like. In one example, the golf ball 100 includes one or more cores 210, such as two (e.g., three-piece ball) or three cores 210 (e.g., four-piece ball). The shell 220 of the golf ball 100 includes, but is not limited to, a copolymer, polyurethane, urethane, ionomer, or similar polymer.

In the example of FIG. 2, the shell 220 includes a laser marking substrate 222 (shown as stippling). The laser marking substrate 222 includes, but is not limited to, titanium dioxide (e.g., powder), zinc oxide, zinc sulfide, or the like. The laser marking substrate 222 is infused (e.g., added or mixed) into the shell material before the shell 220 is applied (molded) to the golf ball 100. In one example, the shell material includes one- to four-percent (e.g., by volume or weight depending upon the shell material) of the laser marking substrate 222. For instance, the laser marking substrate 222 is mixed with the shell material in a mixing section of a barrel of an extruder or injection molding machine or within a hopper upstream from the extruder or injection molding machine. In one example, the laser marking substrate 222 includes an initial color. The initial color includes, but is not limited to the same color as the original color of the shell or another color.

The laser marking substrate 222 produces an altered substrate color in response to exposure to the laser beam (as further described with regard to FIG. 5). The altered substrate color correspondingly modifies the original shell color (e.g., contrasting to the original color). The altered color produced by exposing the laser marking substrate 222 to the laser beam is dependent on the laser system parameters used to generate the laser beam (e.g., the power, scan rate, pulse frequency and pulse width) and the material of the laser marking substrate 222 (e.g., titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, zinc sulfide). The original shape of the exterior surface 110 is maintained from the pre-marked configuration to the post-marked configuration. For instance, no material is added or removed during the marking process. The original shape and characteristics of the golf ball 100 are maintained without the removal of material (ablating) or addition of material (printing).

To achieve a consistent laser mark 140 (e.g., a substantially uniform color and contrast), the laser marking substrate 222 is uniformly mixed into the shell material prior to forming the shell 220. In other words, the laser marking substrate 222 is evenly (e.g., uniformly) dispersed into the shell material and the uniform distribution of the laser marking substrate 222 in the shell material (e.g., surrounding the core 210) is maintained from the pre-marked configuration to the post-marked configuration. In one example, the laser mark 140 includes the modified shell color at a depth of about 0.004 inches or less from the exterior surface 110 of the shell 220 (within the shell as opposed to over the surface of the shell).

In one example, the golf ball 100 includes a clear coat. The clear coat is layered over the exterior surface 110 of the shell 220. The clear coat includes, but is not limited to, a urethane, polyurethane, or other clear coat resin. In one example, the clear coat does not include the laser marking substrate 222. In one example, the clear coat does not include a laser mark 140. For instance, the clear coat is applied after the golf ball 100 is laser marked so the clear coat does not interfere with the laser marking process. In another example, the laser used with the laser marking process readily passes through the clear coat (it is transparent to the laser) to modify the shell 220 and the laser marking substrate 222 as described herein (i.e., the clear coat is applied prior to the laser marking).

In one particular example, the golf ball 100 includes the shell 220 constructed with, but not limited to, polyurethane, Surlyn or ionomer. The shell 220 includes titanium dioxide as the laser marking substrate 222. The core 210 includes a polybutadiene rubber core. The laser marking system (as shown in FIG. 3 and described herein) produces a laser beam to mark the shell 220 (having a combination of materials as described above). The laser marking system includes laser system parameters that are controlled by the data input to the laser system. The laser system parameters include, but are not limited to, a 355 nm wavelength operating at 20 kHz, a 35 inch per second beam travel rate, a 5 μs (microsecond) pulse width, and an output power of around 1 Watt.

FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of one example of a laser marking system 301 used to laser mark a golf ball 100 according to the methods described herein. The laser marking system 301 includes two sections, for instance a workstation 300 and a terminal 310 connected with an umbilical assembly 320. In this example the laser head 338 includes a laser resonator that generates the laser beam. The laser head 338 further houses a reflective rear mirror and a partially reflective front mirror (or output coupler). In another example, the laser resonator is included in the umbilical assembly 320. In such a configuration the laser head 338 is eliminated.

The laser beam 331 used in marking the golf ball 100 is generated with electrical power from the power supply 350. The power supply excites an active medium in the laser head 338, and the laser head 338 discharges a laser beam to an X-Y galvanometer motor/mirror system 336. The X-Y galvanometer mirror system 336 is controlled with motion control methods (e.g., software algorithms) from the terminal 354 according to data input from an input device, such as a keyboard 352 or from a motion algorithm provided by the terminal (e.g., a set pattern of laser movement for a desired logo, text or the like). The laser beam travels from the laser head 338, into the X-Y galvanometer mirror system 336 and is steered downward 90 degrees from its original path through a focusing lens 333.

The focusing lens 333 focuses the laser beam at a focal point (e.g., according to the focusing lens power). Laser marking of materials (e.g., a golf ball 100 including a laser marking substrate 222) is generally done at or near the focal point of the laser beam 331 (e.g., a focused laser beam diameter) to ensure the target (e.g., the golf ball 100) receives sufficient laser beam power density to mark the target (e.g., with clean well defined marking).

As shown in FIG. 3, the golf ball 100 is positioned under the laser beam 331 with a fixture 332. The fixture includes, but is not limited to, a single load fixture, a fully automated ball feeding fixture interfaced with the laser software and terminal 354 for high volume mass production or the like. The fixture 332 varies according to production volume (e.g., the fixture 332 is optionally configured to hold a plurality of balls). The golf ball fixture 332 is supported by a base 334. Optionally, the base 334 is tied to the laser Z axis actuator 342 and support beam 340 (as described herein an optional supporting plate system for movement relative to the Z axis actuator 342).

In one example, of the automated ball feeding fixture includes a feeder bowl (e.g., a hopper). For instance, a large number of golf balls 100 are continuously dispensed from a hopper (optional) and enter the feeder bowl (another hopper). The feeder bowl is arranged to dispense the golf balls 100 in single-file along a track that transports the golf balls 100 to the fixture 332. Optionally, the automated ball feeding fixture includes a vibrating feeder bowl, track, or combination of both to move the golf balls 100 from the feeder bowl along the track and to the fixture 332. In some instances, the vibrating feeder bowl or track minimizes jamming or clogging of the golf balls 100 along the path from the feeder bowl to the fixture 332.

In another example, the fixture 332 includes a series of positioning members including, but not limited to rotating feet, rings, belts, pads, suction pads or the like, that coordinate to rotate and position the golf ball 100 for laser marking. In one example, the fixture 332 is in communication with the terminal 354 and operated in concert with the remainder of the laser marking system 301. For example, the golf ball 100 is gradually rotated according to the pattern of markings input to the terminal. The fixture 332 rotates and positions each locus of a marking at the focal point of the laser beam 331. Stated another way, the fixture 332 coordinates its movement with the scribing of the laser beam to gradually reposition and rotate the golf ball 100 without requiring manual interaction (hand positioning) by an operator or robotic arm system. The laser mark 140 is thereby provided to the golf ball 100 in an automated fashion according to movable positioning provided by the fixture 332. Optionally, the positioning members (feet, rings, pads or the like) are indexed with graduated markings and an encoder and sensing system is configured to measure rotation and position of the positioning members and the terminal 354 corresponds these measurements with the position of the golf ball 100. In still another example, an optical recognition sensor is directed at the golf ball 100 to measure the position of the golf ball 100 during rotation provided by the fixture, and feedback from the system is used to adjust the position of the golf ball.

In still another example, the fixture 332 includes two or more orifices for access to the golf ball 100. For instance, the fixture 332 includes opposed orifices or openings that facilitate access to opposed ends of the golf ball 100. Similarly, in such an example, the laser marking system 301 includes a second laser head (like head 338) that generates a second laser beam 331 for marking of another portion of the golf ball 100. For instance, in one example, the first and second laser heads 338 scribe the same or different markings on the golf ball 100 at positions around the golf ball 100 according to the fixture 332 and the position of the laser heads 338. In still another example, alignment lines are provided along the circumference of the golf ball 100 (e.g., between markings provided by the laser heads 338). In such an example, an optional third laser head 338 is provided to mark the alignment lines around the golf ball 100. By providing multiple laser heads 338 movable positioning of the golf ball 100 is optionally avoided. Accordingly, upon installation of a golf ball 100 within the fixture 332 the multiple laser heads 338 mark the golf ball 100 at a plurality of locations in a simultaneous manner.

In another example, the workstation area 300 includes an automated Z axis actuator 342 controlled with the terminal 354 to raise and lower the laser head assembly 338 (as well as the galvanometer mirror system 336 and the focusing lens 333). The workstation 300 ties the laser head assembly 338 to the automated Z axis actuator 342 as shown in FIG. 3 with a supporting plate system 340. Optionally, the supporting plate system 340 uses a gusset support system. In still another example, the Z axis actuator 342 includes one or more actuators that move the laser components (head assembly 338, mirror system 336 and the lens 333) along one or more axes including, but not limited to, X, Y, Z and rotational and tilt axes.

In one example, the laser system includes an internal optical focusing element. The internal optical focusing element is configured to quickly move the focal point of the laser beam to focus closer or further from the exterior surface 110 of the shell 220. For instance, the focus range of the internal optical focusing element includes, but is not limited to about one half inch or less. By programming the character and shape of the golf ball 100 (spherical with a set dimple pattern) into such a system, one or more of identifying or decorative characters and marks (e.g., the desired identification, pattern or art) are marked accurately and reliably on the golf ball 100 as the laser beam focal point travels away from top dead center A of the golf ball 100 and towards the target region limit B. For instance the laser system uses progressive programming of the ball character and shape to compensate for the changing distance between the intended marking surface (e.g., exterior surface 110 of the golf ball 100) and the laser head to determine corresponding optical offsets (e.g., laser focus height from the laser head 338 to the ball) taking into account the programmed marks and characters. In one example, the laser system (shown herein) focuses the laser beam at the focal point within the target region 130, such as midway between the top dead center A and the target range limit B to ensure consistent marking across the area at or between the top dead center A and the target region limit B. In still another example, the internal optical focus element adjusts the laser focal point as the laser scribes across the varying relative height of the marking surface (e.g., over the dimpled exterior surface 110 from about the top dead center A to about the target region limit B). Stated another way, the laser includes a relatively higher focal point near the top dead center A and is gradually focused at a lower focal point nearer to the target region limit B as the laser scribes from the top dead center A to the target region limit B. Accordingly, the marking on the golf ball 100 maintains a consistent size and formatting (and accordingly does not have the appearance of contracting near the top dead center A of the ball and expanding nearer to the target region limit B). In another example, the focal point is maintained at a constant value to ensure variation in marking size (e.g., stylized text that is larger at either end of the text nearer to the target region limit B and smaller in its middle near to the top dead center A).

One example of the laser systems includes a series of lenses combined with an aspheric lens that is adjusted to the diameter of the intended object (e.g., of the golf ball 100). With the laser system including an aspheric lens, no in-process lens correction (e.g., internal optical focusing element) is needed during marking. Stated another way, the aspheric lens includes a profile (e.g., that is not part a portion of a sphere or cylinder) that produces a laser focal point located at or near the exterior surface 110 of the golf ball 100 for the entire target region 130 from the top dead center A to the target region limit B.

In another example, the laser marking system marks the golf ball 100 without using the previously discussed focus distance correcting applications (e.g., progressive programming). The focal point is set for a point midway between the top dead center A and the target region limit B. Distortion of the mark is minimized when the laser is directed near the top dead center A or when directed near the target region limit B because the focal point is located between the top dead center A and the target region limit B.

As further shown in FIG. 3, the terminal 310 includes the power supply assembly 350, and the power supply assembly 350 houses the laser power supply (and electronics coupled with the terminal 354). The terminal 354 is optionally associated with the power supply assembly 350. The terminal 354 optionally includes a vacuum system for fumes and a cooling system for the power supply.

It will be appreciated that some of the components of the laser marking system 301 may be configured differently or omitted from the exemplary arrangement shown in FIG. 3. For instance, the laser marking system 301 may vary according to differences in fixtures 332, available manufacturing floor space, work environment and similar considerations. The umbilical assembly 320 is in one example a flexible hose and conduit that delivers the electrical power and instructions to the laser head 338 and allows electronic and optical communication between the power supply electronics, the terminal 354, and the workstation 300. In other examples, the laser marking system 301 is consolidated within a single unit or separated into individual components beyond those shown in FIG. 3.

In describing the methods 400 and 500, reference is made to one or more components, features, functions, and steps previously described herein. Where convenient, reference is made to the components, features, steps and the like with reference numerals. Reference numerals provided are exemplary and are nonexclusive. For instance, features, components, functions, steps, and the like described in the methods 400 and 500 include, but are not limited to, the corresponding numbered elements provided herein. Other corresponding features described herein (both numbered and unnumbered) as well as their equivalents are also considered.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary method for laser marking a golf ball 100, wherein the original shell material of the golf ball 100 is non-white or non-off-white. In one example, the laser provides a subsurface mark, for instance by producing a modified color of the shell material that is lighter than the original shell material. For instance, with a dark colored shell 220 the laser may lighten (instead of darken) the shell 220 to mark the ball.

At 402, the method 400 includes providing a golf ball 100 including the core 210 and the shell 220, wherein the shell 220 includes an original shell color and an exterior surface 110. The golf ball 100 includes, but is not limited to, a solid core, liquid core, wound core, or any combination thereof. In one example, the provided golf ball 100 includes a shell 220 including, but not limited to, a copolymer, polyurethane, urethane, ionomer, or similar polymer. The core 210 of the golf ball 100 includes a core material that includes, but is not limited to, ethylene copolymers, balata, acrylate, natural rubber or synthetic rubber, such as polybutadiene rubber, a liquid core material, or the like. In one example, the golf ball 100 includes one or more cores 210, such as two (e.g., three-piece ball) or three cores 210 (e.g., four-piece ball). The shell 220 and the shell material include the original shell color, and the exterior surface 110 of the shell 220 includes the original shape (e.g., a spherical shape with dimples 120). The original color includes, but is not limited to yellow, orange, pink, other non-white colors, or the like.

At 404, the method includes marking the shell 220 including maintaining an identical shape of the exterior surface 110 (e.g., original shape) from a pre-marked configuration to a post-marked configuration, exposing a portion of the shell 220 to a laser beam, and modifying the original shell color within the portion of the shell 220 according to the exposure of the portion of the shell 220 to the laser beam. That is to say, the laser marking of the shell 220 occurs within the shell.

Maintaining the identical shape includes marking the golf ball 100 without ablating the exterior surface 110 of the golf ball 100. For instance, the exterior surface 110 includes an original shape, such as a spherical original shape in the pre-marked configuration, and the golf ball 100 includes the original shape in the post-marked configuration (i.e., the golf ball 100 includes a laser mark 140). In one example where the original shape of the golf ball 100 includes dimples 120 arranged in a pattern, the shape and pattern of the dimples 120 in the post-marked configuration includes the original shape and pattern of the dimples in the pre-marked configuration.

In one example, exposing the shell 220 to the laser beam includes focusing the laser beam, such as a laser beam produced by the laser system described herein, on the exterior surface 110 of the golf ball 100. The laser beam is focused with enough power density to do the required work at the work piece (e.g., produce a laser mark 140 on the shell 220 of the golf ball 100). The laser beam emitted from the laser system is focused by the focusing lens 333. The focusing lens 333 is attached to a laser head assembly (as shown in FIG. 3 and previously described herein). In one example, the focal point of the laser will be the location at which the laser beam is at its smallest diameter along the path of travel from the laser head and through the focusing lens 333. In one example, to produce a laser mark 140 in the shell 220 that accurately represents the intended mark, the focal point of the laser beam is located within the focus range of the intended target surface (e.g., the exterior surface 110 of the golf ball 100). For instance, the focus range includes maintaining the location of the focal point to within +/−0.050 inches of the exterior surface 110. In one example, the focal point is within the shell 220 of the golf ball 100 (i.e., a sub-surface laser marking).

In the example of method 400, modifying the original shell color of the portion of the shell 220 exposed to the laser as a result of exposing a portion of the shell to the laser beam includes producing gas pockets in the shell 220. The gas pockets are produced by exposing the shell 220 to the laser beam. For instance, the energy of the laser beam causes slight degradation (e.g., foaming) in the shell material resulting in the formation of the gas pockets. The gas pockets scatter light within the shell 220, thereby producing laser marks 140 on the golf ball 100 that are lighter than the original shell color (a modified shell color). In one example, the original shell color is modified within the shell 220 at a depth of 0.004 inches or less from the exterior surface 110 of the shell 220.

The laser marking system 301, that produces the laser beam, includes laser system parameters that are controlled by the data input to the laser system 301. The laser system parameters include, but are not limited to, a power of about 0.2 Watts to 3.0 Watts, a focal point (focused laser beam) diameter of 0.0006 to 0.005 inches, a pulse width from 0.1 μs (microseconds) to 30.0 μs, and a wavelength from 150 nm to 1064 nm. In one example, the laser beam is translated (e.g., scribed) along the exterior surface 110 of the golf ball 100 at a beam travel rate. The beam travel rate is the rate at which the mirror system 336 steers the focal point of the laser beam at the exterior surface 110.

In one example, the laser system 301 generates a laser beam in a series of laser pulses. In other words, the laser beam is exposed to the exterior surface 110 in a non-continuous manner. The laser system 301 generates the laser pulses and includes laser system parameters to adjust the pulse width from 0.1 μs (microseconds) to 30.0 μs. The mark produced by each laser pulse touches, or nearly touches, the preceding mark. In one example, the surface area of the marks overlap one another by nearly 90%. In one example, the laser pulses translate along the exterior surface 110 at a scan rate of one inch per-second to one-hundred inches per-second. The overlap of the marks is dependent on the pulse width and the scan rate of the laser system parameters. For instance, when the laser system parameters include a constant pulse width, the area of the overlap of the marks is decreased as the scan rate (the beam travel rate along the exterior surface 110) is increased. In one example, the contrast of the modified shell color is increased by adjusting one or more of the laser system parameters including, but not limited to, increasing the overlapping area of the marks, decreasing the pulse width, decreasing the scan rate, or increasing the power of the laser beam.

In one example, the laser beam is a continuous wave laser beam. For instance, the laser beam is continuously exposed to the golf ball 100 during laser marking. For instance the laser beam is not pulsed. The continuous wave laser beam produces a continuous laser mark on the golf ball 100, so there is no spacing between the laser marks and the degree of overlap is not an issue. In one example, the scan rate of the laser controls the contrast of the modified shell color. For instance, a slow scan rate produces dark marks and a high scan rate produces light marks.

In one example, the method 400 further includes applying a clear coat over the exterior surface 110 of the shell 220. The clear coat includes, but is not limited to, a urethane, polyurethane, or other clear coat resin known to one of ordinary skill in the art. In one example, the clear coat is applied after the golf ball 100 is laser marked so the clear coat does not interfere with the laser marking process. In another example, the laser used with the laser marking process readily passes through the clear coat to modify the shell 220 as a result of exposing a portion of the shell to the laser beam as described herein (i.e., the clear coat is applied prior to the laser marking).

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an exemplary method 500 for laser marking a golf ball 100, wherein the original shell material of the golf ball 100 is white, off-white, yellow, orange, pink, or the like. In one example, a laser mark 140 is produced on the golf ball 100 that includes a laser mark 140 with a modified color that is a darker color than the original shell color. For instance, the laser mark 140 includes a darker shade of the original shell color, grey, black, or the like.

At 502. The method 500 includes providing a golf ball 100 including the core 210 and the shell 220, the shell 220 infused with a laser marking substrate 222 including an initial substrate color, wherein the shell 220 includes an exterior surface 110 and an original shell color, as previously described herein.

At 504, the method 500 further includes marking the golf ball 100 (e.g., with the laser system described herein) while maintaining an original shape of the exterior surface 110 between a pre-marked configuration and a post-marked configuration, including exposing a portion of the shell 220 to a laser beam, and modifying the original shell color of the portion of the shell 220 exposed to the laser beam according to an alteration of the initial substrate color in response to exposure to the laser, wherein the alternation of the initial substrate color is within the shell 220 (including on the exterior surface 110).

The altered substrate color is produced in response to exposing the laser marking substrate 222 to the laser beam. The laser marking substrate 222 includes an altered substrate color that is darker than the initial substrate color as a result of exposure to the laser beam. The laser marking substrate 222 absorbs more light than the shell material and in response, becomes darker than the original substrate color. For instance, the darkening of the laser marking substrate 222 is caused by one or more of a chemical reaction, annealing, carbonization, or other photochemical reaction in the laser marking substrate 222. In one example, chemical bonds between the laser marking substrate 222 and the shell material are broken causing the altered substrate color as a result of the exposure to the laser beam.

The altered substrate color correspondingly modifies the original shell color (e.g., contrasting to the original shell color). In one example, the laser marking includes the modified shell color at a depth of about 0.004 inches or less from the exterior surface 110 of the shell 220. The uniform distribution and amount of the laser marking substrate 222 infused into the shell material affects the amount of corresponding modification of the original shell color. In one example, larger amounts of laser marking substrate 222 produce greater corresponding modification of the original shell color. The altered substrate color is also, for instance, dependent on the laser system parameters used to generate the laser beam (e.g., the power, scan rate, pulse frequency and pulse width) and the material of the laser marking substrate 222 (e.g., titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or zinc sulfide). To achieve a consistent laser marking (e.g., a substantially uniform modified shell color and laser marking contrast), the laser marking substrate 222 is uniformly mixed into the shell material prior to forming the shell 220. In other words, the laser marking substrate 222 is evenly (e.g., uniformly) dispersed into the shell material. Optionally, the power of the laser beam exposed to the laser marking substrate 222 is adjusted during the laser marking process to provide multiple marks. Each of the one or more marks optionally includes a different shading (or contrast) relative to the original shell color according to the power of the laser beam exposed to each of the laser marks 140. In one example, the laser mark 140 is darker when the laser marking substrate 222 is exposed to a laser beam that includes a high power as opposed to a lighter laser mark 140 that is created when the laser marking substrate 222 is exposed to a laser beam including a low power.

The original shape of the exterior surface 110 is maintained from the pre-marked configuration to the post-marked configuration. For instance, no material is added or removed during the marking process. Stated another way, the original golf ball 100 maintains its desired shape and characteristics without the removal of material (ablating) or addition of material (printing). In one example, the uniform distribution of the laser marking substrate 222 in the shell material (e.g., surrounding the core 210) is maintained from the pre-marked configuration to the post-marked configuration.

In one example, the method 500 further includes applying a clear coat over the exterior surface 110 of the shell 220. The clear coat includes, but is not limited to, a urethane, polyurethane, or other clear coat resin known to one of ordinary skill in the art. In one example, the clear coat does not include the laser marking substrate 222. In one example, the clear coat is applied after the golf ball 100 is laser marked so the clear coat does not interfere with the laser marking process. In another example, the laser used with the laser marking process readily passes through the clear coat to modify the shell 220 and the laser marking substrate 222 as described herein (i.e., the clear coat is applied prior to the laser marking).

The methods and systems described herein further allow for the laser marking of a golf ball 100 with the desired marking quickly changed in the laser software screen in a matter of seconds or minutes depending on what changes are made. In contrast, pad printing requires a new mold for each imprint (based on changes between an original imprint and a desired later imprint).

Further, as described herein the present methods and systems permanently embed the laser marking within the shell 220 (e.g., up to approximately 0.004 inches deep within the shell 220). The laser marking will not ablate (short of destruction of the ball) because of striking by a club head or from normal wear over the lifetime of the golf ball 100. In contrast, ink eventually flakes (ablate) from the shell 220 after repeated ball impacts or wear of the ball over time.

Further still, as described with the systems and methods herein the exterior surface 110 of the golf ball 100 is not ablated or printed on and is accordingly unaffected by material removal (ablation) or material addition (ink printing). Instead, the shell 220 as described herein is unaffected during the laser marking process (with corresponding laser system parameters) and the physical properties of the golf ball 100 are maintained. Such physical properties include the aerodynamic shape of the ball, the dimple patterns of the ball, the desired weight distribution of the shell 220 around the core 210, or the like. For example, when a laser marked golf ball 100 is viewed under a microscope at 15× magnification there is no noticeable difference in the surface texture of the marked areas when compared with the surface texture of the non-marked areas.

Another advantage of the present method is that the forgiveness in the effective focus range of the method is suitable for marking the arc of the exterior surface 110 of the golf ball 100 and the dimple patterns of the ball (e.g., within the target region 130 shown in FIG. 1) without inconsistencies provided with other marking methods that require physical contact between the ball and the imprinter. It is challenging to ink print a surface with dimples 120, especially when the surface is also curved. The imprint pad in contact with the curved surface is matched to the surface. Pad printing on a curved surface may leave smears on the surface where the imprint pad has not properly conformed to the dimples 120 and curved surface. Laser marking addresses these challenges, as there is no physical contact between the surface and the laser head 338.

Various Notes & Examples

Example 1 can include subject matter such as can include a method for laser marking a golf ball comprising: providing a golf ball including a core and a shell, the shell infused with a laser marking substrate including an initial substrate color, wherein the shell includes an exterior surface and an original shell color; marking the golf ball while maintaining an original shape of the exterior surface between a pre-marked configuration and a post-marked configuration, including: exposing a portion of the shell to a laser beam, and modifying the original shell color of the portion of the shell exposed to the laser beam according to an alteration of the initial substrate color in response to exposure to the laser, wherein the alternation of the initial substrate color is within the shell.

Example 2 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Example 1 to optionally include wherein the laser marking substrate includes one or more of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or zinc sulfide.

Example 3 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1 or 2 to optionally include wherein marking the shell includes modifying the original shell color at a depth of about 0.004 inches or less from the exterior surface.

Example 4 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-3 to optionally include wherein maintaining the original shape of the exterior surface includes maintaining a dimple pattern of the golf ball.

Example 5 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-4 to optionally include wherein maintaining the original shape of the exterior surface includes maintaining a spherical shape of the golf ball.

Example 6 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-5 to optionally include wherein marking the shell includes maintaining a uniform distribution of shell material around the core in the pre-marked configuration and the post-marked configuration.

Example 7 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-6 to optionally include applying a clear coat over the exterior surface of the shell, wherein the clear coat does not include laser marking substrate.

Example 8 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-7 to optionally include wherein the laser beam includes a power of 0.2 Watts to 3.0 Watts, a pulse width of 0.1 μs to 30.0 μs, and a wave length of 150 nm to 550 nm.

Example 9 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-8 to optionally include a laser marked golf ball comprising: a core; a shell surrounding the core, the shell including: a shell material, an exterior surface of the shell; one or more laser marks within the shell material wherein the golf ball includes: a pre-marked configuration, wherein a shape of the exterior surface includes an original shape, and an un-marked portion of the shell material includes an original shell color, and a post-marked configuration, wherein a marked portion of the shell includes a modified shell color, and the original shape of the exterior surface is maintained from the pre-marked configuration.

Example 10 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-9 to optionally include laser marking substrate infused within the shell material, the laser marking substrate including: a pre-marked configuration, wherein the laser marking substrate includes an initial substrate color, and a post-marked configuration, wherein the laser marking substrate includes an altered substrate color, the altered substrate color correspondingly modifying the original shell color.

Example 11 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-10 to optionally include wherein the laser marking substrate includes one or more of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or zinc sulfide.

Example 12 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-11 to optionally include wherein the one or more laser marks is located in the shell at a depth of about 0.004 inches or less from the exterior surface.

Example 13 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-12 to optionally include wherein the original shape of the exterior surface includes a spherical shape and a dimple pattern, and the spherical shape and the dimple pattern are identical between the pre-marked configuration and the post-marked configuration.

Example 14 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-13 to optionally include wherein the shell material is uniformly distributed around the core in the pre-marked configuration and the post-marked configuration.

Example 15 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-14 to optionally include wherein the shell material in the post-marked configuration is non-ablated with the one or more laser marks within the shell material.

Example 16 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-15 to optionally include a method of laser marking a golf ball comprising: providing a golf ball including a core and a shell, wherein the shell includes an original shell color and an exterior surface; marking the shell including: maintaining an identical shape of the exterior surface from a pre-marked configuration to a post-marked configuration, exposing a portion of the shell to a laser beam, and modifying the original shell color within the portion of the shell according to the exposure of the portion of the shell to the laser beam.

Example 17 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-16 to optionally include wherein modifying the original shell color includes producing gas pockets in the shell, the gas pockets resulting from exposure to the laser beam.

Example 18 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-17 to optionally include wherein providing the golf ball includes providing the shell including a shell material, wherein the shell material includes a laser marking substrate including one or more of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or zinc sulfide.

Example 19 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-18 to optionally include wherein marking the shell includes modifying the original shell color at a depth of about 0.004 inches or less from the exterior surface.

Example 20 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-19 to optionally include wherein maintaining the identical shape of the exterior surface includes maintaining a dimple pattern of the golf ball.

Example 21 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-20 to optionally include wherein maintaining the identical shape of the exterior surface includes maintaining a spherical shape of the golf ball.

Example 22 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-21 to optionally include wherein maintaining the identical shape of the exterior surface includes maintaining a uniform distribution of shell material around the core.

Example 23 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-22 to optionally include wherein the laser beam includes a power of 0.2 Watts to 3.0 Watts, a pulse width of 0.1 μs to 30.0 μs, and a wave length of 150 nm to 550 nm.

Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or can be combined in various permutations or combinations with one or more of the other examples.

The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls.

In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

Method examples described herein can be machine or computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples can include a computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of such methods can include code, such as microcode, assembly language code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code can include computer readable instructions for performing various methods. The code may form portions of computer program products. Further, in an example, the code can be tangibly stored on one or more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible computer-readable media, such as during execution or at other times. Examples of these tangible computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic disks, removable optical disks (e.g., compact disks and digital video disks), magnetic cassettes, memory cards or sticks, random access memories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the like.

The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for laser marking a golf ball comprising: providing a golf ball including a core and a shell, the shell infused with a laser marking substrate including an initial substrate color, wherein the shell includes an exterior surface and an original shell color; marking the golf ball while maintaining an original shape of the exterior surface between a pre-marked configuration and a post-marked configuration, including: exposing a portion of the shell to a laser beam, and modifying the original shell color of the portion of the shell exposed to the laser beam according to an alteration of the initial substrate color in response to exposure to the laser, wherein the alternation of the initial substrate color is within the shell.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the laser marking substrate includes one or more of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or zinc sulfide.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein marking the shell includes modifying the original shell color at a depth of about 0.004 inches or less from the exterior surface.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein maintaining the original shape of the exterior surface includes maintaining a dimple pattern of the golf ball.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein maintaining the original shape of the exterior surface includes maintaining a spherical shape of the golf ball.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein marking the shell includes maintaining a uniform distribution of shell material around the core in the pre-marked configuration and the post-marked configuration.
 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising applying a clear coat over the exterior surface of the shell, wherein the clear coat does not include laser marking substrate.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the laser beam includes a power of 0.2 Watts to 3.0 Watts, a pulse width of 0.1 μs to 30.0 μs, and a wave length of 150 nm to 550 nm.
 9. A laser marked golf ball comprising: a core; a shell surrounding the core, the shell including: a shell material, an exterior surface of the shell; one or more laser marks within the shell material wherein the golf ball includes: a pre-marked configuration, wherein a shape of the exterior surface includes an original shape, and an un-marked portion of the shell material includes an original shell color, and a post-marked configuration, wherein a marked portion of the shell includes a modified shell color, and the original shape of the exterior surface is maintained from the pre-marked configuration.
 10. The laser marked golf ball of claim 9, further comprising laser marking substrate infused within the shell material, the laser marking substrate including: a pre-marked configuration, wherein the laser marking substrate includes an initial substrate color, and a post-marked configuration, wherein the laser marking substrate includes an altered substrate color, the altered substrate color correspondingly modifying the original shell color.
 11. The laser marked golf ball of claim 10, wherein the laser marking substrate includes one or more of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or zinc sulfide.
 12. The laser marked golf ball of claim 9, wherein the one or more laser marks is located in the shell at a depth of about 0.004 inches or less from the exterior surface.
 13. The laser marked golf ball of claim 9, wherein the original shape of the exterior surface includes a spherical shape and a dimple pattern, and the spherical shape and the dimple pattern are identical between the pre-marked configuration and the post-marked configuration.
 14. The laser marked golf ball of claim 9, wherein the shell material is uniformly distributed around the core in the pre-marked configuration and the post-marked configuration.
 15. The laser marked golf ball of claim 9, wherein the shell material in the post-marked configuration is non-ablated with the one or more laser marks within the shell material.
 16. A method of laser marking a golf ball comprising: providing a golf ball including a core and a shell, wherein the shell includes an original shell color and an exterior surface; marking the shell including: maintaining an identical shape of the exterior surface from a pre-marked configuration to a post-marked configuration, exposing a portion of the shell to a laser beam, and modifying the original shell color within the portion of the shell according to the exposure of the portion of the shell to the laser beam.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein modifying the original shell color includes producing gas pockets in the shell, the gas pockets resulting from exposure to the laser beam.
 18. The method of claim 16, wherein providing the golf ball includes providing the shell including a shell material, wherein the shell material includes a laser marking substrate including one or more of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or zinc sulfide.
 19. The method of claim 16, wherein marking the shell includes modifying the original shell color at a depth of about 0.004 inches or less from the exterior surface.
 20. The method of claim 16, wherein maintaining the identical shape of the exterior surface includes maintaining a dimple pattern of the golf ball.
 21. The method of claim 16, wherein maintaining the identical shape of the exterior surface includes maintaining a spherical shape of the golf ball.
 22. The method of claim 16, wherein maintaining the identical shape of the exterior surface includes maintaining a uniform distribution of shell material around the core.
 23. The method of claim 16, wherein the laser beam includes a power of 0.2 Watts to 3.0 Watts, a pulse width of 0.1 μs to 30.0 μs, and a wave length of 150 nm to 550 nm. 